The Albanese Labor Government is committed to better supporting the three million unpaid carers in Australia, which often includes war widows and veterans families. As part of this commitment, a discussion paper on the new National Carer Strategy has been released, and public consultation is now open. This is a crucial opportunity for carers, former carers, and the support sector to share their experiences and insights to help shape the future of carer support in Australia.
Key issues investigated
The discussion paper addresses several key priorities, challenges, and solutions for Australia’s carers. It aims to ensure that the National Carer Strategy is responsive to the needs of carers and provides a foundation for an Australian community where all carers are recognised, valued, and empowered. The Strategy will coordinate policy across Commonwealth portfolios, including aged care, disability, veterans’ affairs, and mental health.
Minister’s message
Minister for Social Services Amanda Rishworth emphasised the importance of this consultation, stating, “We want to hear from unpaid carers, former carers, and the support sector about their experiences and how we can better support them both in their caring role and other aspects of their lives.” The Minister also highlighted the series of face-to-face consultations being held around the country to ensure the Strategy reflects the diverse experiences of all carers, including war widows and veterans families.
How you can contribute
Our organisation is committed to contributing to this consultation, and we encourage war widows, veterans families, and defence families to do the same. By participating, you can help shape a coherent national agenda for improving the lives of unpaid carers. Carers who may not have the time to submit a formal submission can still contribute by answering a series of short questions online on issues that are most relevant and important to them.
Call to Action
We urge you to read the Minister’s release and the discussion paper on the National Carer Strategy. Your insights and experiences are invaluable in ensuring that the Strategy is effective and inclusive. Click through to the An external link was removed to protect your privacy. and the An external link was removed to protect your privacy. to make your voice heard.
The Government is committed to delivering the National Carer Strategy by the end of the year. This Strategy will provide the vision, principles, governance, and immediate actions needed to support carers better. By contributing to the consultation, you can help ensure that supports for carers are appropriately designed and prioritised, enabling them to balance their caring role with all aspects of their lives, such as work, study, and social participation.
Join us in this important conversation and help shape the future for war widows, veterans families, and defence families. Your contribution can make a significant difference. Email our lead advocate Renee Wilson on ceo@fov.org.au.
